Job Description
The Rig Manager is responsible for the overall safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of a drilling rig. This includes ensuring compliance with safety regulations, managing crew performance, overseeing drilling operations, and coordinating with company representatives and third-party service providers. The Rig Manager plays a key leadership role in maintaining operational excellence while upholding the highest safety and environmental standards.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Operations & Performance Management
- Oversee all drilling, workover, and maintenance operations on the rig.
- Ensure the rig operates within budget, schedule, and technical specifications.
- Monitor daily drilling reports, operational logs, and equipment performance.
- Optimize drilling efficiency while maintaining safety and procedural compliance.
2. Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
- Enforce company HSE policies and industry best practices (API, OSHA, IADC, NEBOSH, ISO 45001, etc.).
- Conduct and participate in safety meetings, risk assessments, and incident investigations.
- Ensure PPE compliance and enforce safety protocols to prevent incidents.
- Maintain compliance with environmental protection measures and emergency response plans.
3. Crew Management & Leadership
- Supervise and manage rig personnel, contractors, and service providers.
- Assign duties and monitor crew performance to ensure high productivity and adherence to safety standards.
- Train and mentor rig crews to improve skills and knowledge.
- Ensure adequate manpower levels and shift coverage.
4. Equipment & Maintenance Oversight
- Ensure rig equipment, machinery, and drilling tools are properly maintained and inspected.
- Schedule and oversee preventive maintenance to minimize downtime.
- Coordinate with the maintenance team to resolve mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical issues.
5. Communication & Coordination
- Serve as the primary point of contact between the rig and corporate office.
- Liaise with company representatives, drilling engineers, and third-party vendors.
- Provide daily operation updates, incident reports, and performance analysis to management.
Skills
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Petroleum Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (preferred).
- Minimum 15+ years of experience in drilling operations, with at least 3 years in a rig management role.
- Strong background in land or offshore drilling operations.
- Experience working with different rig types (jack-up, semi-submersible, land rigs, deepwater, etc.).
- Saudi or GCC experience
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of drilling programs, well control, and rig maintenance.
- Expertise in HSE protocols, risk assessment, and incident investigation.
- Ability to lead, train, and motivate teams in high-risk environments.
- Effective problem-solving, decision-making, and crisis management skills.
- Certifications (Preferred):
IWCF or IADC Well Control Certification
✔ H2S Awareness & Safety Certification
✔ BOSIET/HUET Certification (for offshore operations)
✔ NEBOSH or OSHA Safety Certification
- ✔ First Aid & Firefighting Training
